The Oklahoma City Thunder have yet to achieve their goal, but they are gearing up for the upcoming playoffs with their sights set on an NBA title.
The management has put in significant effort in recent years, and it’s now time to reap the benefits. However, the current team may struggle to be competitive in certain areas.
After securing first place in the competitive Western Conference at the conclusion of the regular season, the team proceeded to the knockout stages as a relative unknown.
The question looming over them: could they replicate their earlier success in the first phase?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a standout performer, almost like a walking MVP, but he’s in need of support to drive the team forward.
Despite Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren exceeding expectations, there are still some missing pieces.
The team ranked 29th in offensive rebounds and also placed second to last in allowing the opponent to rebound.
Essentially, they allowed the opponent second chances while struggling to capitaliee on the same opportunities themselves.
The Thunder’s management should focus on recruiting a formidable center to assist Holmgren in his duties.
Now is the time to monitor the market and discern viable options. There’s no benefit in hastily dismissing opportunities out of desperation.
In the coming years, a total of 33 draft picks are expected, with 13 of them being from the first round. In the meantime, the team only has two free agents: Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins.
The Thunder have all the necessary elements to significantly strengthen the team.
Joe and Wiggins may return, but the roster needs reinforcement. This season, the team delivered the best performance in the entire league, with a 39.1% success rate.
It is possible to go after a pivot who knows how to space the court, leaving the space for Gilgeous-Alexander to infiltrate and receive his fouls as in recent years.
